Yucatan Destinations

History, Culture and Flamingos

The state of Yucatan is on the northern part of the Yucatan Peninsula. It is bordered by the states of Campeche and Quintana Roo, with the Gulf of Mexico to the north. Home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites and archaeological sites, you can surround yourself with culture, architecture, food, Mayan traditions and people. Outside of the city centers you will find a diverse environment in the protected biospheres and fresh water cenotes.

A Delightful Mixture of Culture, Coastal Fishing Villages, History and Mayan Stories

The Yucatan was once a powerful Mayan center, making it the go-to state to see and experience notable ancient Mayan ruins. The famous ruins of Chichen Itza are located in the heart of the Yucatan, as well as some lesser known but impressive archaeological sites such as Uxmal, Ek Balam and Dzibilchaltun. Yucatan is a history buff’s paradise and a great place to deepen your knowledge of the Maya. In addition to the historical and cultural sites located in the area, visitors will enjoy sustainable tourism activities in the Biosphere Reserves of Celestun and Rio Lagartos. Both reserves are home to hundreds of flamingos, turtles and migratory birds year-round. To add to the glory found inland, the cenotes or fresh water sink-holes in the Yucatan offer a different experience to those found in the Riviera Maya.

The Yucatan is a diverse, culturally rich state with many different adventures and experiences for travelers and visitors. Use the State of the Yucatan as your home base or make day trips to the villages and cities from the beaches of the Riviera Maya.

Merida – The Colonial Capital

Merida is the cultural and artistic center of the Yucatan Peninsula, as well as the capital of Yucatan state. When the Spanish invaded Merida, the original Mayan city was called Th’o. Though it is a large city, Merida retains a distinct small town charm in the centro historico where narrow streets are lined with colorful colonial facades. The zocalo and city center is a lively cultural hub, presided over by the cathedral, San Ildefonso. A variety of galleries, museums, markets and theaters will keep cultural enthusiasts entertained. Foodies will enjoy the diverse selection of restaurants influenced by Spanish, Mayan, Yucatecan and European cuisines.

Izamal – ‘The Yellow Town’

Izamal is definitely worth a visit, either as a stop-over on the way to Merida from Cancun, or as a day trip from the capital. Its yellow painted buildings are extremely photogenic, and the Franciscan monastery is an outstanding tour. There are some unattended Mayan ruins on the outskirts of the city center. Horse drawn carriages line up around the zocalo to take you for a tour of the city during your stay.

Valladolid – The Artistic Center

Valladolid is the third largest town on the Yucatan Peninsula. This city has a charming colonial center with impressive cathedrals, a pretty zocalo and picturesque streets in the centro historico. There is a large cenote minutes from the city center called Cenote Zaci where visitors can enjoy a swim, lunch and a tour of this freshwater cavern. Valladolidid is becoming a hot destination with the ever-increasing artistic culture calling this colonial city home.

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Valladolid

Merida

Rio Lagartos

Stay Close By

Merida| 1 to 2 Beds | 1 Bath [woocommerce_reviews_avgstars]
This small hotel is located in the heart of the city just a few blocks from the Gran Plaza. What you'll love about this little gem is its proximity to local areas where residents love to hang out, eat and drink.

Merida| 1 Bed | 1 Bath [woocommerce_reviews_avgstars]
This small adult only boutique hotel in one of Merida's most popular neighborhoods puts you in the heart of beautiful colonial architecture and within a short walk to popular attractions, museums, the theater and trendy restaurants that serve contemporary Mexican cuisine.

Yucatan – Chichen Itza| 1 to 2 Beds | 1 Bath [woocommerce_reviews_avgstars]
Hacienda Chichen was built in the XVI Century to serve the Spanish Crown. This historical site has been converted in to a lovely boutique hotel, and has entertained people like President Bill Clinton.

Merida – Yucatan| 1 to 2 Beds | 1 Bath [woocommerce_reviews_avgstars]
Merida is a walking city and staying close to the Gran Plaza, museums, the theater and art galleries makes your visit to the city easy and delightful. This small hotel with various room types is peaceful, a little oasis in the city.

Yucatan| 1 to 2 Beds | 1 Bath [woocommerce_reviews_avgstars]
Direct access to the world-famous Uxmal ruins; old-world hospitality, modern amenities, are just some of the ‘features’ that have convinced a number of world leaders and European royalty to stay here.

Yucatan – Chichen Itza| 2 Beds | 1 Bath [woocommerce_reviews_avgstars]
Hotel Mayaland sits on 100 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens in the heart of the Chichen Itza ruins archaeological park, with its own entrance to the Maya temples. Take your choice of deluxe bungalows or hotel rooms right next to the ruins!

Yucatan| 1 to 2 Beds | 1 Bath [woocommerce_reviews_avgstars]
Surrounded by forest, this sister hotel to the Hacienda Uxmal is a short walk to the Uxmal Archeological site and the perfect accommodations for those road tripping through the Yucatan. Different room types are available with breakfast and parking included.